FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Find answers to common questions about setup, inflation, care, maintenance, storage, accessories, and warranty information for Further Customs inflatable docks, paddle boards, boats, water hammocks, and marine accessories.
Our Frequently Asked Questions page is your complete resource for getting the most from your Further Customs inflatable products. Whether you're looking for the recommended PSI, setup instructions, cleaning and storage tips, warranty information, or compatibility with accessories and outboard motors, you'll find expert guidance in one place. We also share best practices to help maximize performance and extend the life of your equipment, including proper inflation techniques, safe anchoring methods, seasonal storage recommendations, UV protection tips, and routine maintenance. Following these recommendations will help keep your inflatable dock, paddle board, water hammock, boat, electric engines or chair performing like new for years of adventures on the water.
Correct Inflatation Pressure
Recommended PSI
Using the correct air pressure is essential for maximizing performance and comfort. Further Customs inflatable platforms and water hammocks, including the Avalon Dock, Avalon Pad, Avalon Plank, and Pup Up, are designed to perform best at 7 PSI, providing excellent rigidity.. Our Captain's Chair and Skipper's Seat should be inflated to 10 PSI for optimal support and comfort. The Laguna inflatable catamaran uses two different pressures: the inflatable tubes should be inflated to 3 PSI, while the high-pressure drop-stitch floor should be inflated to 10 PSI. Our inflatable paddle boards should be inflated to 15–18 PSI, with 17 PSI recommended for the best combination of stiffness and performance. For the most accurate results, always inflate using a pressure gauge rather than estimating by feel, as proper inflation improves stability, handling, and the long-term lifespan of your inflatable.
3.5 PSI
10 PSI
4-7 PSI
4-7 PSI
4-7 PSI
15-17 PSI
3 PSI
10 PSI
Laguna Catamaran FAQ
One of the most common concerns about the Laguna’s open bow design is whether it allows water to enter the boat. In reality, the opposite is true — this thoughtful design delivers an exceptionally dry ride, often outperforming traditional V-hull inflatables. The upward-sloping rocker at the bow allows the Laguna to glide smoothly up and over chop, wakes, and swell rather than cutting through them. Oversized 18–19" tubes, a wide beam, and a high-pressure inflatable floor provide outstanding volume, rigidity, and buoyancy. This keeps the deck elevated and stable in a variety of conditions, significantly reducing splash and keeping passengers dry. With larger tubes, a broader beam, and premium drop-stitch construction, the Laguna is arguably the driest inflatable boat in its class.
The Catamaran Kits include a bimini canopy, two collapsible aluminum oars, two EVA wrapped bench seats, hand air pump, a repair kit and a wheeled carrying bag for convenient transportation and storage.
The Inflatable Catamaran Kit is shipped by FedEx Ground or FedEx International Priority. Custom & bulk orders will have shipping rates quoted prior to shipping.
An outboard engine is not included, though our catamarans are compatible with most common electric, propane & gas powered engines. Variables such as the body of water, number of passengers, travel range, and other factors will influence the type of outboard engine you will want to use. Feel welcome to reach out to us if you would like any recommendations.
The Laguna 330 catamaran is designed with a 15-inch transom, making a short shaft (15") outboard the correct and recommended pairing. This ensures the propeller sits at the proper depth for optimal performance, efficiency, and balance. Using a long shaft (20") would position the lower unit too deep in the water, creating unnecessary drag, reducing efficiency, and potentially contributing to a bow lift.
Yes, some customers choose to keep their Laguna catamaran inflated for the whole boating season and prefer transporting it by trailer. There are many trailers for dinghies and small inflatables available online, as well as at local stores like West Marine and Bass Pro Shops. We recommend two CE Smith trailers for our models: the CE48810 for the Laguna 290 and the CE48870 for the Laguna 330.
Yes, our hull numbers are recognized by the USCG and can be registered with the DMV.
Simply submit your Bill of Sale (Copy of Receipt/Proof) & your Manufacturers Statement of Origin (Download Here) to the DMV to apply for your registration numbers.
Yes, if you intend to use an outboard motor. All motorized vessels that operate on public waterways must be titled and registered.
The catamaran kit takes only 15 to 20 minutes to assemble. It consists of 4 chambers in the sponsons inflated to .25 BAR / 3.5 PSI & 1 chamber in the floor inflated to .7 BAR / 10.5 PSI. Additionally, our available electric pump accessory with auto-stop & a digital gauge makes inflating & deflating as easy as pressing a button. Click here to view the Assembly Instructions.
Absolutely. The Laguna was engineered to handle regular folding and unfolding without compromising durability. That’s why we use premium materials like Heytex® PVC, which retains its flexibility and strength over time. Unlike lower-grade fabrics that can become brittle or degrade, our construction is built to last through years of use and storage. Many of our customers, especially RV travelers, regularly inflate their Laguna catamarans at coastal or lakeside stops, enjoy them for days or weeks, and then deflate and repack them before heading to the next destination — all with lasting reliability.
5-Year Warranty on Hull Fabric
The Laguna’s hull fabric, made from premium Heytex PVC, is backed by a 5-year warranty against porosity and rot. This high-quality material can withstand sun exposure for up to five years before showing signs of wear. To extend the life of your vessel well beyond this, we recommend storing it in the included wheeled carry bag during the off-season or using our custom UV cover for added protection.
3-Year Warranty on Hull Seams
All hull seams are protected by a 3-year warranty against delamination. Unlike traditionally glued seams, the Laguna is built using thermal welding, ensuring a long-lasting, airtight seal that stands up to sun, saltwater, and regular use.
2-Year Warranty on Accessories
All included accessories — such as the canopy, oars, seats, pump, and wheeled carrying bag — are covered by a 2-year warranty against corrosion and defects in materials or workmanship.
Paddleboards FAQ
What is included in your inflatable paddleboard kit?
Every Further Customs inflatable paddleboard kit includes everything you need for a premium paddling experience: a thermally welded board, 3-piece carbon fiber paddle, dual-action reversible hand pump, click-in fin, coil leash, shoulder carry strap, repair kit, and a 3-wheeled backpack/carrying bag for easy transport and storage.
What is the recommended PSI?
Further Customs paddleboards are designed to be inflated between 15 and 18 PSI for peak performance. Although the board will feel firm at 12 PSI, we recommend inflating to17 PSI for optimal rigidity, responsiveness, and glide. Built with woven drop-stitch technology and welded seams, our boards are engineered to safely handle higher pressures—delivering a solid, stable feel underfoot that rivals traditional hardboards.
How long does it take to inflate & deflate?
- Inflation:
Hand Pump: ~6–10 minutes, depending on your speed, board size, and whether you're using single or dual-action mode (which pumps air on both the up and down strokes for faster inflation).
Electric Pump: ~8–12 minutes on average, hands-free with automatic shutoff at target PSI (usually 15–18 PSI).
- Deflation: ~2–4 minutes.
Remove the valve cap, press to release air, and roll tightly from nose to tail towards the open valve.
Using an electric pump with a deflate mode can make this even faster and more compact.
What kind of fin box is used on these boards?
Further boards are built with a universal fin box, giving you the flexibility to use nearly any standard center fin commonly available at surf or paddleboard shops. This allows riders to customize their board’s performance based on conditions or personal preference. For example, a shorter, flexible fin is ideal for shallow water or river paddling, while a longer, more rigid fin enhances tracking for long-distance rides. Each board comes equipped with a convenient Click-In fin, perfect for all-around paddling.
What factors make paddleboards differ in their stiffness & stability?
Several factors influence how stiff an inflatable board feels underfoot:
- Types of Dropstitch: Woven drop-stitch cores are stiffer than traditional linear ones.
- Pressure Rating: Boards rated to higher pressures hold their shape better.
- Board Thickness: Thicker boards (6" or more) tend to flex less, especially under load.
- Materials and Layering: Premium boards like ours use fused or laminated PVC along with reinforced sidewalls. While many boards use just a single sidewall layer, we go further—each board includes two layers of PVC, a third carbon fiber layer for increased stiffness & durability, and a fourth layer protecting the seams for added UV & saltwater resilience.
What is the difference between Woven & Linear drop-stitch construction?
- Linear drop-stitch (also called knitted): Uses looped yarns that interlock like a sweater, creating small curves and slack between connections. This added stretch requires more material and PVC coating to maintain rigidity, resulting in a heavier board with greater flex under pressure. Despite its drawbacks, this construction is the most common method used by competitors due to its lower manufacturing cost.
- Woven drop-stitch fabric: the warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) yarns are interlaced in a tight crisscross pattern, similar to threads in a finely woven textile. Each yarn remains straight—without bending, looping, or twisting—resulting in minimal stretch, reduced material usage, and a more rigid, high-performance structure. This design increases rigidity and makes the board approximately 15–20% lighter. The reduced weight not only makes the board easier to carry and paddle, but also improves responsiveness—especially in turns—by lowering swing-weight.
What exactly are drop-stitch fibers that make up the inside of a paddleboard?
Drop-stitch fibers are thousands of high-tensile polyester threads that connect the top and bottom internal layers of an inflatable paddleboard or boat. These vertical fibers are what make it possible for inflatables to maintain a flat, rigid shape when inflated to high pressure. They can differ greatly in their quality between brands in relation to their strength, density per square inch and construction type.
- How Drop-Stitch Fibers Work
Imagine a board as two flat fabric panels (top and bottom).
Inside, tens of thousands of tiny threads are woven vertically between them—these are the drop-stitch fibers.
When the board is deflated, the panels lie flat.
But when you inflate the board, the air pressure pulls the panels apart—and the drop-stitch threads keep them evenly spaced, preventing the board from ballooning into a round or pillow-like shape.
This creates a rigid, flat surface that mimics the feel of a hard board.
- Why They're Important
Without drop-stitch fibers, an inflatable would simply bulge into a tube or ball when pressurized. It’s this fiber matrix that allows boards to hold high pressure (up to 18PSI) and still feel firm and stable enough to stand and paddle on.
What are the advantages of Woven drop-stitch?
The base fabric is Woven, meaning the warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) yarns cross each other at 90 degrees without looping. This gives the fabric less stretch, better shape retention, and a more stable platform.
Woven fabrics are often used in combination with fusion lamination (a heat-bonded process that replaces glue with thermal bonding), which creates a lighter, stronger, and more durable shell.
Because the woven structure needs less PVC to maintain stiffness, the result is a significantly lighter and stiffer board with fewer layers and safer with no glue failure risk.
What are the advantages of Welded Construction (Heat-Bonded or Fused Technology)?
Welded seams fuse PVC layers together by heat & pressure rather than glue to create a stronger, more durable bond. This also results in superior stiffness, better air retention, and longer lifespan compared to glued seams, which can weaken, leak, or delaminate over time.
- Stronger and Longer-Lasting Bond
Welding creates a permanent mechanical bond by melting the PVC layers together, essentially fusing them into one. This results in seams that are less likely to separate over time, especially in high heat or heavy use.
- No Risk of Glue Degradation
Glue can weaken over time due to UV exposure, heat, humidity, or saltwater, leading to delamination or leaks. Welded seams eliminate adhesives, so there’s no chemical breakdown or aging of glues to worry about.
- Better for High-Pressure Performance
Welded seams can safely withstand higher PSI ratings, giving the board a stiffer, more hardboard-like feel.
- Improved Air Retention
The airtight bond of welding makes seams more resistant to micro-leaks, reducing the chance of slow deflation over time.
- Eco-Friendlier Construction
With proper care, welded paddleboards can last significantly longer than those with glued seams—offering greater durability, reduced material waste, and a more environmentally responsible construction method.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we specialize in shipping internationally and can handle all customs duties & fees. We insure and manage the delivery of your order from our doors to yours.
How long will it take to get my orders?
Orders are shipped from our warehouse in Los Angeles, CA via FedEx, with the following estimated transit times:
- USA & Canada: 5–7 business days
- International Orders: 7–16 business days
- Custom Orders: Ship within 90-120 days (Available for quantities of 20 pcs or more).
Dock FAQ
What is included in the dock kit?
All Further swim platforms include a dual-action & reversible hand pump, repair kit and carrying shoulder strap for convenient storage & transportation.
What the warranty for the Avalon Dock?
We offer a 2-year limited warranty that covers material defects, manufacturing faults, and seam failures under normal recreational use.
This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser and begins on the original date of purchase. Products must be purchased directly from Further Customs or an authorized dealer to be eligible for warranty coverage.
Exclusions: Damage from misuse, overinflation, prolonged sun exposure, commercial use, or improper storage is not covered. Tearing or damage to D-rings, accessory mounts, or tie-down attachments caused by excessive force, or improper towing.
Is it stable enough to stand, walk, or place chairs on?
Yes, our Avalon docks are extremely rigid and stable when inflated to 4–7 PSI. They're built to support coolers, chairs, and multiple adults while maintaining a stable and rigid feel without flex. Many customers even use them for boat maintenance and cleaning—a true testament to their stability and durability.
How long does it take to inflate and deflate?
Inflation typically takes 6–10 minutes using our included dual-action, reversible hand pump, which pushes air on both the up and down stroke—cutting pump time in half compared to single-action pumps. Deflation takes about the same time, and using the pump’s deflate mode will remove every last bit of air, making the dock as flat as it was the day you unboxed it.
Can inflatable docks be left water overnight or for multiple days?
Yes, the Avalon Dock is built to be UV- and saltwater-resistant. Its sidewalls feature a second reinforcing layer and a third layer along the seams to maintain integrity in harsh conditions. However, extended exposure to the elements may reduce its lifespan. For best results, rinse and dry after use and store in a cool, shaded area when not in use.
How durable are inflatable docks?
Our dock is built with military-grade PVC and drop-stitch construction, offering exceptional resistance to punctures, abrasions, and UV damage. The material is similar in strength and durability to that of a commercial-grade river raft. While not completely impervious to sharp objects, it’s far more rugged than standard pool toys or floaties. Inflate it on a smooth, flat surface, and you can expect it to hold up for many seasons of use.
Can dogs go on it? Will their claws puncture it?
Yes, our Avalon Dock can handle dog nails without risk of puncture. While claws may leave scratches or surface marks on the decking, these are purely cosmetic and won’t affect the dock’s air retention or structural integrity. For added protection—and to keep it looking its best—we recommend laying down a towel or mat where your dog tends to sit or move around.
What’s the best way to store inflatable docks when not in use?
Rinse the dock with fresh water, allow it to fully dry, then roll and store it in a cool, dry place. You can remove all air by folding and compressing it manually or by using the included hand pump in deflate mode to vacuum out the air. It’s also perfectly fine to leave the dock partially inflated or fully deflated for storage—there’s no harm in doing so. Just avoid storing the dock fully inflated in direct sun or extreme heat, as internal pressure can rise above the recommended 7 PSI.
Does it come with a repair kit?
Yes, the dock includes a valve wrench so you can tighten the valve if it ever becomes loose or needs replacement. It also comes with a PVC patch in case a repair is needed. While punctures are extremely rare, they’re usually quick and easy to fix—similar to patching a bicycle tire.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we specialize in shipping internationally and can handle all customs duties & fees. We insure and manage the delivery of your order from our doors to yours.
How long will it take to get my orders?
It depends on where you would like your order delivered. Orders processed within the USA & Canada will take 5-7 business days to arrive. Overseas deliveries can take anywhere from 7-16 days. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email. Custom orders will ship in 60-90 days.
Hammock FAQ
How quickly can I inflate and deploy an inflatable water hammock?
Further Customs inflatable docks are designed for fast, hassle-free setup—fully inflating in just 4 to 8 minutes with the included hand pump or effortlessly with an optional electric pump.
What weight capacity do your inflatable boat docks support?
Our 8-inch thick construction delivers superior buoyancy and weight capacity compared to standard inflatable platforms, allowing for safe and stable use by multiple adults, gear, and accessories.
Approximate weight capacities by product:
- Avalon Dock: 1,500 lbs
- Avalon Plank: 600 lbs
- Avalon Bar: 100 lbs
- Avalon Pup-Up Dog Ramp: 120 lbs / 140 lbs XL
- Avalon Pad Water Hammock: 1,500 lbs
- The Water Hammock’s unique mesh-center design functions more like a floating hammock, allowing users to partially submerge and relax in the water. Because of this, it can comfortably support as many people as can fit on the surface, making it an ideal choice for groups looking to lounge together.
What is the recommended pressure for the inflatable water hammocks?
The inflatable platforms are built to handle a recommended air pressure range of 3 to 7 PSI, allowing you to tailor firmness to your needs:
- For lounging, sunbathing, or kid-friendly play, a softer 3–4 PSI provides a cushioned, more forgiving feel—perfect for kids to jump and wrestle on, or for adults to kick back and relax in comfort.
- Maximum Firmness & Stability—such as when hosting multiple guests, placing furniture, using the dock as a work platform, or staging gear—inflate to the full 7 PSI for a rigid, supportive surface that feels solid underfoot.
Are inflatable swim platforms safe for saltwater use?
Yes, all our products use marine-grade materials specifically designed to resist saltwater corrosion, UV damage, and harsh marine environments.
How compact are inflatable docks when stored?
When deflated, our docks fold into surprisingly compact packages that fit easily in boat storage compartments, garage spaces, or vehicle trunks.
Can inflatable water hammocks damage my boat?
No—our docks use soft, inflatable edges and top-mounted D-rings that act as natural fenders to prevent scratches and scuffs.
Can children safely use floating inflatable water hammocks?
Our platforms feature stable, secure construction suitable for family use, though adult supervision and appropriate flotation devices are always recommended around water.
How is the water hammock different from inflatable mats or trampolines?
Our water hammocks feature a fused mesh center that won’t sag, doesn’t allow debris or sea creatures through, and avoids gaps where hands or feet could get caught.
How many people can fit on the dock or water hammock?
The 878 Avalon Pad Water Hammock supports up to 1,200 lbs or about 8 adults. The spacious mesh center comfortably fits four adults stretched out, while the sturdy inflatable perimeter provides additional seating for more friends and family.
The Avalon Dock supports up to 1,500 lbs of people and gear, comfortably carrying 6–8 adults. With a spacious 7' × 7' surface and 8" thick construction, it offers ample room for lounging, entertaining, and storing gear without sinking or flexing.
Is the mesh of the water hammock safe for pets?
Yes—the fused mesh center is strong, supportive, and resistant to scratches from pet claws. It’s designed without sidewall gaps, so there’s no risk of paws getting caught. Unlike trampoline-style hammocks that sag or let debris through, the mesh keeps pets comfortably suspended while preventing sea creatures and debris from entering.


